Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Program Requirements

The course-of-study through Washburn University integrates curriculum designed by the American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT). The ASRT curriculum (2008 Edition) requires a base of existing knowledge involving computers, ethics and law, anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, patient care. The program also incorporates information as outlined in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification handbook for magnetic resonance.

Core curriculum includes:

Sectional Anatomy

Clinical Practice and Patient Management

Physics (Instrumentation and Imaging Principles)

Imaging Procedures

Pathology

A graduate of the MR certificate program will possess entry-level knowledge and clinical skill. The certificate in magnetic resonance (MR) requires the completion of a minimum of twenty-two credit hours, including clinical experience. All MR courses count towards the Bachelor of Health Science (BHS) degree.

The BHS degree is not automatically awarded upon completion of the MRI program, as additional requirements exist. See the Allied Health home page for more information on the BHS degree.

What is Magnetic Resonance?

Magnetic resonance (MR) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a procedure that uses pulses of radio wave energy along with a magnetic field to image a specific body area. Structure and function of the body are then presented as cross-sectional anatomy images. MR has greater soft tissue contrast than CT, thereby creating detailed images.

MR is capable of demonstrating a variety of conditions within the human body such as infection, bleeding, tumors, aneurysms, torn ligaments, spinal discs and nerve injury. Abnormalities of the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis may also be imaged. Through the addition of contrast media, MR is able to provide images of blood vessels which is termed magnetic resonance angiography or MRA.

Technologists employed in magnetic resonance imaging may work in hospitals, imaging centers. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, technologists with certification in more than one diagnostic imaging area such as MR will be more marketable.

The Program

The Magnetic Resonance (MR) program is administered by the Department of Allied Health which is located in the School of Applied Studies. The program curriculum at Washburn University is accredited by North Central Association. The program may be completed either full-time or part-time and results in a certificate of completion. Upon successful conclusion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the post-primary exam with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Classes begin in mid-August and finish the following May. The program is composed of both online didactic (theory) courses and clinical experience courses. The clinical portion is completed at a MR facility in your geographical area.

Program Goals

1. To graduate students with the theoretical knowledge to perform as competent entry-level MR technologists.

2. To graduate students with professional expertise and behaviors.

3. To graduate students with the ability to make independent decisions and think critically.

4. To graduate students with the ability to skillfully care for their patients.

Admission Criteria

An applicant must possess current registration in radiography (ARRT), radiation therapy (ARRT), sonography (ARRT or ARDMS) or nuclear medicine (ARRT or NMTCB). A second year student currently enrolled in an education program in radiography, radiation therapy, sonography or nuclear medicine may also apply. The applicable certification examination (ARRT, etc.) must be completed prior to starting the clinical portion of the program.

Out-of-State Admissions Application Disclaimer

The admission of students into a Washburn University degree or certificate program offered online or at sites outside of Kansas is contingent upon the University’s compliance with any applicable regulations or laws enacted by those states in which the students reside. The University is reviewing the regulations imposed by other states in which our current students reside to determine their applicability and the feasibility of complying with such regulations in the future.

What's an Ichabod?

Washburn's mascot, the Ichabod, honors the school's early benefactor, Ichabod Washburn, a 19th century Massachusetts industrialist. The original design of the studious-looking, tuxedo-clad figure was created in 1938 by Bradbury Thompson (ba '34), who became an internationally acclaimed graphic artist. Design wasn't Thompson's only consideration. To the stylized Ichabod the artist attributed the qualities of "...courage and enthusiasm, as shown by his brisk walk. He is democratic and courteous, for he tips his hat as he passes. Sincere in his search for truth and knowledge, he studiously carries a book under his arm..."